St. George Church Edathua is a revered pilgrimage site nestled in the heart of Kerala, India. With its rich history, architectural splendor, and reputation for miracles, this church draws devotees from far and wide seeking solace, healing, and divine intervention.

Having visited numerous times with my family, I’ve come to appreciate not just its architectural beauty but also the deep-rooted traditions that make it so special. In this blog, I’m excited to take you through the fascinating history of St. George Church, its unique specialties, and the grand feast that draws thousands of devotees each year.

St. George Church Specialty

St. George Edathua Church holds a special place in my heart, as it’s one of the most revered Christian pilgrimage sites in Kerala, India. Dedicated to St. George, the church draws thousands of devotees, including myself, who come to honor the saint known for his legendary defeat of a dragon.

One of the church’s highlights is the annual feast in May, a time when the church comes alive with special prayers, processions, and cultural events. It’s a deeply spiritual experience, and I’m always moved by the sense of community and devotion that fills the air during the celebrations.

The church itself is a stunning blend of traditional Kerala architecture with rich Christian symbolism. Its serene ambiance, coupled with the beautiful design, makes it a significant landmark not just for Christians in Kerala, but for anyone interested in religious and cultural heritage.

What makes St. George Church Edathua even more special to me is its reputation as a place of healing and miracles. Many pilgrims, myself included, come seeking physical, emotional, and spiritual healing, believing in St. George’s intercession. The community is filled with stories of miraculous recoveries and profound transformations, each one a testament to the power of divine grace and intervention.

History of Edathua Church

The history of St. George Church in Edathua reflects the early days of Christianity in Kerala. Initially, the faithful journeyed to Niranam Church, founded by St. Thomas the Apostle, then to Champakulam Church in AD 427.

The rise of the Chempakassery regime in Ambalapuzha led Christians from Kuravilangadu and Kudamaloor to migrate to Kuttanad, prompting the need for a local church in Edathua.

The foundation stone for Edathua Church was laid on September 29, 1810, during St. Michael the Archangel’s feast, with Bishop Reymond’s consent. To accommodate the growing congregation, the construction of a new church, the “Cemetery Church,” began in 1824 and was blessed on May 6, 1824, by Bishop Luduvikose Marthini.

The current magnificent church’s foundation stone was laid on November 15, 1839, with the altar completed in 1861. It boasts splendid artistic design, divided into nave, chancel, and sanctuary sections, adorned with depictions of the crowning of the Holy Mother of God and revered figures.

The altar, with four pillars and three divisions, houses religious elements like the Preparation Table and the Baptistry, with a statue of St. George placed outside the nave.

Feast of St. George

St. George, known as Geevarghese Sahada, is the revered patron saint of the Edathua parish, celebrated for his unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ and his ultimate sacrifice.

Born in Lydda, Palestine, into a devout Christian family, Geevarghese rose to prominence as the head of Emperor Diocletian’s bodyguards by the age of twenty.

When Diocletian demanded that he worship Roman gods, Geevarghese’s steadfast refusal and unwavering faith led to severe persecution. Rejecting the emperor’s offers of wealth and honors, he endured torture and was eventually beheaded in Nicomedia.

Before his martyrdom, he distributed his wealth among the poor, epitomizing his commitment to his faith and compassion. The Persian-style statue of St. George in Edathua Church commands deep reverence from all visitors.

The annual Feast of St. George at Edathua is a major event, beginning with the flag-hoisting ceremony on April 27 and concluding on May 14. This vibrant festival attracts millions of devotees from across South India, and in the past, even from countries like Sri Lanka.

The main celebration days on May 6 and 7 feature a grand procession, where the statue of St. George is carried by pilgrims from Tamil Nadu regions such as Marthandom, Kanyakumari, and Chinnamuttom. During these days, the grounds around the church transform into a lively trade center, showcasing the communal spirit and devotion of the attendees.

Devotees bring a multitude of offerings to express their gratitude to Geevarghese Sahada for protection during their journeys and from various threats. Some pilgrims participate in processions around the church, carrying bricks on their heads as acts of penance.

The oil poured on the flag mast is believed to gain miraculous medicinal properties, and many collect it to take home. Offerings also include rice, malar (fried rice), threads, salt, and leaves from the teak tree in front of the church, which are all considered valuable.

The diversity of offerings, from chickens, candles, and ornaments to replicas of human body parts, highlights the widespread reverence for St. George and the deep faith of the devotees seeking his blessings and protection. Notably, a gold coin bearing Napoleon’s head once found among the offerings indicates the far-reaching influence of this venerated saint.

The Grave of Thommachen

The grave of Puthenparampil Thommachen at St. George Church in Edathua is a hallowed site, reflecting his saintly life and contributions. Born on July 8, 1836, Thommachen was baptized at St. Mary’s Church, Champakulam.

After his father’s death, his mother raised him with strong religious and moral values, educating him in Malayalam and Tamil, which enabled him to study religious texts extensively.

Despite his inclination for an ascetic life, Thommachen married Annamma from Pulimcunnu Parish at twenty, honoring his mother’s wishes. They had three children and lived comfortably.

In 1865, Thommachen and his companions embraced a life of penance, serving the poor, especially the Harijans. In 1868, inspired by the Franciscan Third Order, he adopted its rules, becoming the first member in Kerala under the name Louise.

Thommachen’s influence spread as he established fraternities across Travancore and Cochin, centering his activities at Poonthope near Alappuzha. He built a church dedicated to St. Francis Assisi and a house for the destitute.

Despite facing false allegations and temporary excommunication in 1873, his dedication remained steadfast, leading to his reinstatement and leadership of the Franciscan Third Order in Kerala, which grew to over 3000 members.

His later years were marked by severe fasting, meditative retreats, and tireless service. He co-founded the Franciscan Clarist Congregation (FCC) and the Sisters of the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament (SABS). Thommachen passed away on November 1, 1908.

His grave is a pilgrimage site where many seek his blessings, reporting numerous received miracles. Declared the first lay Servant of God in Kerala by Archbishop Mar Joseph Perumthottam, Thommachen’s cause for sainthood progresses, recognizing his lasting spiritual impact.

How to Reach St. George Church Edathua

St. George Church Edathua, is conveniently located in Edathua town. In order to reach the church, take the NH66 and exit the highway to follow the Ambalapuzha Thiruvalla Road. Then when you reach Edathua, take the church road.